Pakistan captain Babar Azam and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi (Agency Image)
Babar Azam Surprised by PCB’s Mid-Series Changes
Pakistan captain Babar Azam has expressed his surprise over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to drop seven players and alter the coaching staff without prior consultation. Speaking to reporters before the 3rd Test match against England, Babar revealed that he was informed of these changes only after they were made.
“It was news to me as well. I also came to know about it later. Since the PCB made the decision, they can explain it better,” Babar stated in the pre-match press conference.
The players released from the squad include Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, Ali Usman, and Awais Zafar. Babar clarified that he was not involved in the decision-making process regarding these changes.
Amid the turmoil, Babar also confirmed that he is fit to lead Pakistan in the final Test. Pakistan will now look to avoid a series whitewash while dealing with a drastically altered squad and continued uncertainty surrounding the team management. England Squad: Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox, Joe Root(c), Harry Brook, Dan Lawrence, Jamie Smith(w), Gus Atkinson, Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir, Sonny Baker, Sam Cook, Ollie Pope
The captain had missed training earlier in the week after suffering from fever but has recovered in time for the Edgbaston contest.